Meet Shelley from Bedfordshire
I have Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a condition that causes dislocations throughout my body. Some days, I’m able to move around, but other days, I’m confined to a wheelchair.
Before being partnered with Kibble, I struggled with frequent dislocations and relied on my husband and children for everything. Discovering Canine Partners was life-changing for me.
With Kibble by my side, I was more independent and confident. He did so much for me, from helping me get out of bed to doing my laundry and shopping. He picked up everything I dropped and was always there to comfort me when I was feeling down. With Kibble, I am never alone, and could go out and do things I never thought I could do before. He’s greatly impacted my life.
Even now that he has retired, Kibble is always there to comfort me when I’m feeling down. His great sense of humour never fails to cheer me up.
I’ve been preparing for Kibble’s successor, which I applied for in February 2023. I’ve been leaving him at home more often, letting family members walk him, and bringing in his friend, Pebble, to help with some of his favourite tasks. While waiting for my canine partner successor, I’ve been feeling anxious about not having a dog by my side.
I feel safer and more comfortable with a canine partner in public, and people are more likely to engage with me. I don’t want to go back to relying on humans for help with personal tasks. I don’t like going out without him, so I’ve been staying in more. Recently, I dropped my phone and tried to reach for it, resulting in a cracked rib. I felt embarrassed and in pain, and had to ask for help.
Kibble has changed not only my life but also that of my family. My children could go to school and after-school clubs without worrying about me, and my husband could go to work without constantly checking in on me. My anxiety has been growing again since Kibble retired, but I know that a successor will be a lifesaver for me.
Having a canine partner has given me confidence and the ability to accomplish anything. They are not just life enhancers but life savers. I am thankful for the past 10 years with Kibble and am convinced that if I hadn’t gotten him, I wouldn’t be here today.